a narrative adventure in spirituality

Luke and the Reality of Rejection and Favor

Luke does not prepare us for what happens at chapter four. Until now, he has focused on success stories. Everywhere Jesus goes, he receives acclaim. Fanfare even. Even prior to his birth, his presence caused John the Baptist to leap for joy. Afterward, angels sang and shepherds praised. Simeon blessed, Anna gave thanks, and his parents were “amazed at the things which were being said about Him.” At the age of twelve teachers were “amazed at His understanding and answers.” At his baptism, a voice from heaven announces “in Thee I am well pleased.” After teaching in the synagogues of Galilee He “was praised by all.”

From womb to manger to temple to the Jordan to the synagogue. Only good things are being said about Jesus. No wonder news about him was spreading. Then Jesus returns to his hometown. Luke notes that Jesus returns home in the power of the Spirit. We almost expect a parade. Maybe a boost in sales at the local carpenter shop where he used to work.

Until now, we read stories of success. But here in Nazareth (in a matter of six verses) we go from “all were speaking well of Him” to “all in the synagogue were filled with rage as they heard these things.” It gets worse. “they rose up and cast Him out of the city.” They “led Him to the brow of the hill… in order to throw Him down the cliff.”

This is a story of rejection. John Dominic Crossan argues that Jesus was rejected in Nazareth because he refused to set up shop there and make it his religious base where he performed his miracles. Ben Witherington in The Jesus Quest states otherwise – “he was rejected because his message was found offensive.” I. Howard Marshall adds “The shadow of rejection hangs over the ministry of Jesus from the outset.”

Those in the synagogue would have agreed with the reading from Isaiah and even that God would fulfill his promises. But the idea that they would be fulfilled on this particular day, in this synagogue, in the presence of this audience, with this son of a carpenter is another matter.

“Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” The emphasis is on the arrival of Jesus. Luke wants us to know that after this, nothing will ever be the same. Never the same again for these congregants at the synagogue. Never the same for the poor. Never the same for the captives. Never the same for the blind. Never the same for the downtrodden. Never the same for you or I. Something has changed. Scripture is fulfilled. The arrival and teaching of Jesus changes everything.

Witherington (this time from The Indelible Image) suggests that this sermon may actually set up the agenda for not only Luke but Acts as well. This following response may carry more than literal significance; it may serve as a paradigm of the ministry of Jesus and the mission of the church. The announcement of Jesus may prompt moments of favor; this announcement may also prompt rejection. This is Luke’s reality.